Weight Loss And Nutritionists

Regardless of the reason someone wants to lose weight, a nutrition professional will be a key to success. Unlike trying a crash diet in which you quickly lose and regain weight, a nutrition professional customizes a diet plan for each client to achieve long-term success. Involving an expert in a weight loss plan provides a constant source of guidance, encouragement and adjustments necessary to achieve your desired goals.

Role

The American Dietetic Association defines registered dietitians, or RDs, as "food and nutrition experts who can translate the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living." While some RDs call themselves "nutritionists," not all nutritionists are RDs. Legislation varies from state to state regarding the definition, qualifications and need for licensure of individuals practicing in the field of nutrition and nutrition counseling. Ask about a nutritionist's credentials, training and experience prior to meeting to determine credibility and appropriateness for your needs.

Diet Help

You achieve weight loss when you burn more calories than you consume. A dietitian can help with weight loss, recommending healthy foods that contribute fewer calories than unhealthy food. Portion control, snack and meal ideas and healthy cooking techniques are just a few of the areas a dietitian can address with clients. An initial meeting with a nutritionist often includes obtaining information about foods usually consumed, either in the form of a food diary or an interview. Gaining an impression of a client's overall diet helps a dietitian identify other aspects of a client's eating patterns of which the client may be unaware. Nutritionists work with each client's individual schedules, food preferences and availability and cooking skills.

Lifestyle Modification

Eating a healthy diet and exercising are just two steps for successful weight loss. Lifestyle modification is crucial to reduce habits and behaviors that promote obesity. A nutritionist may apply self-monitoring, goal setting, problem solving and relapse prevention techniques to a client's weight loss journey. Food diaries or food journals are self-monitoring methods that make clients more aware of what, how much, how often and why they eat what they eat. Instead of a big weight loss number that looms in the distance, setting small, achievable weekly or bi-weekly goals can provide more motivation and success. Problem-solving techniques may involve planning healthy snacks before a road trip or taking time to look at a restaurant's online menu beforehand to determine the most healthful item to order.

Get Started

Some insurance plans cover the cost of nutrition counseling if referred by a doctor but not all dietitians accept insurance. Research that information before committing. For exercise plans and fitness training, seek the counsel of a certified personal trainer.